General Merchandise

LAS VEGAS — Energizer is unveiling its latest long-lasting power products at the Consumer Electronics Show this week.

Energizer said Wednesday that it will showcase:

• New Energi To Go products, which include various portable power packs;

• Energizer Inductive and Recharge Smart chargers;

• A new line of electronic accessories, including an all-in-one travel adapter and an extended flash case for the iPhone; and

Americans still are spending on their pets. The American Pet Products Association projected that consumers spent $47.7 billion on their furry friends in 2010, an increase of 4.9% over 2009.


Sales of pet beds, leashes and inexpensive toys still were strong sellers. Treat-dispensing toys, such as Premier Pet Products’ Busy Buddy, are must-have items. When priced right, they generate strong impulse purchases.


COLUMBUS, Ohio — Elmer’s Products revamped its hardware line in November with the addition of two products that offer consumers enhanced strength and performance. Elmer’s believes that by concentrating on the performance of products, it can help reduce consumer confusion at the shelf by providing all-in-one formulas.


TORRANCE, Calif. — A writing instruments leader, in partnership with a nonprofit group, is commemorating National Handwriting Day with a unique promotion.

Pentel's "Heroes Worth Writing For" contest aims to educate the importance of a handwritten letter by encouraging Americans to express their appreciation to U.S. troops. Pentel partnered with Operation Gratitude, which annually sends more than 100,000 care packages addressed to individually named U.S. Service members.

LAS VEGAS — Cobra's Bluetooth tagging system, which links a smart phone to its user or other valuables, will make its debut here at the International Consumer Electronics Show.

The Cobra PhoneTag, powered by Phone Halo Technology, is a two-way alarm and loss-prevention device that links the Android, BlackBerry or iPhone smart phone to its owner or his or her valuables.

NEW YORK — Gaiam's home video license agreement with the Travel Channel is being extended with the DVD release of "Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern" Collection 4, Part 2 and "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations" Collection 5, Part 2.

"Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern" Collection 4, Part 2 follows the adventures of Zimmern, a man with an "iron stomach," as he tackles the most bizarre delicacies. The three-disc DVD set includes 13 episodes and carries a suggested retail price of $24.98, with a total runtime of 563 minutes.

ELMWOOD PARK, N.J., and NEW YORK — Marcal's Small Steps, a line of paper products that is made from 100% recyclable paper, is ready to salute those making environmental differences in their communities.

Through Feb. 25, visitors of MarcalSmallSteps.com/Heroes can nominate and vote for everyday heroes making a big environmental impact where they live. Five winners will be announced, receiving a total of $10,000 in donations to be made in their names to environmental charities.

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — As it celebrates the sale of its 100 millionth digital camera this year, Kodak is expanding its EasyShare portfolio.

The Kodak EasyShare Touch, a 14-megapixel camera that features a 3-in. high-resolution capacitive touchscreen LCD, has an auto organization feature that sorts by people, date, keywords and videos, so it's easy to find the moments you want to share. The Kodak EasyShare Touch camera will be available in silver, black, red-orange, purple and red for $149.95.